Christmas 2015

How is it that I am summarizing Christmas? And is that even remotely possible? How can I possibly wrap all those magical emotions and moments..all the anticipation, excitement, joy, and nostalgia into words and pictures. I can't. Christmas is way beyond that. Those memories are stored deep in my soul, and I can pull them out whenever I need. But in the interest of preservation, I will attempt to put here our memories of Christmas 2015...

Christmas Eve began with waaay too warm weather and a festive breakfast of cinnamon rolls and muffins.

We spent the day tracking Santa on Norad, preparing dinner, visiting with friends, and saying Goodbye to Flynn's favorite little elf, Zip.

Soon it was time for Mass, and our annual Christmas Eve picture in front of the fireplace...

and this year we had an extra member! Nicolas spent Christmas with us and enjoyed every moment. : )

Madison was thrilled they spent their first Christmas together...

and my little lady was too. He is the BEST hide and seek player ever!

I will wear dresses with smocking on her as long as she will let me.

and then, when she won't...I will cry. And yes, I'm serious.

After a beautiful Mass, we came home, spread reindeer food on the front lawn, and had dessert.

Another tradition! The" In Christmas jammies leaving cookies for Santa" photo!

One last goodbye to her Zip...then off to bed with dreams of Christmas Joy!

Christmas morning came quickly... and we posed for the top of the stairs photo before heading down on the most exciting day of the year!

This one...just so I can remember what it is like to have a little who holds that special Christmas magic in her heart. Those years pass way too quickly...

Stockings were first...then we enjoyed a Christmas breakfast of fresh fruit, coffee cake, and doughnuts.

Finally...it was off to see what Santa had left!

My baby was happy!

And I am in love with her new dollhouse! It has doors. That close. To hide all that is inside. : )

Rhett was happy with the additions to his Funko Pop collection...

Peyton received lots of books and games...

and my Madison got some books and beautiful teapots to add to her collection.

Santa even left a few gifts for Nicolas too!

One of my favorite moments of the day...Rhett reading Flynn her special book that Zip the Elf left her along with his special reindeer for her to look after all year long.

The rest of the day was spent in our jammies...playing...napping...snacking...and just being. Being together on the most beautiful, blessed day of the year.

Christmas comes and then, just as quickly, it goes. It is up to us to keep that magic in our hearts long after the presents have been opened, the cookies eaten, and the presents put away. Soon enough it is all a memory, but if we try, we can revisit those magical moments anytime simply by looking into our hearts. : )